CAN Meralco finally break through all the way and make history?
That will be answered as the peaking Bolts seek their first-ever finals appearance as they go up against TNT KaTropa again in the semifinals of the 2016 Philippine Basketball Association Governors’ Cup.
Surprisingly ahead, 2-1, in this best-of-five semis series, Meralco can reach the final round with another win in Game 4 today at 7 p.m. at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
With confidence and momentum on the Bolts’ side, Meralco coach Norman Black is certainly aiming higher for his evolving squad, especially at this point with a golden opportunity at hand.
“We want to realize our dream of winning a championship. We need to keep our effort at the highest level,” said Meralco coach Norman Black. “Why not dream big? Why not think big?”
The Bolts took the crucial Game 3, 119-113, last Saturday night after a strong finish in the clutch as they showed how mature they already are at this stage after six years in the league.
Six Meralco chargers tallied in twin-digits in a complete team effort.
“I’m so proud of our guys for getting over the hump. But still, it’s not yet over. We still need to finish it,” added Black.
Top seed TNT KaTropa was an overwhelming favorite coming into the series but that seems to be an afterthought, at least for now.
The Tropang Texters need to recapture their winning formula just to stay alive and force a deciding Game 5.
After winning Game 1 convincingly, many thought TNT, being the favored team, might have a relatively easy time against the maturing Bolts.
However, Meralco has come of age in the last two games as it took both to put itself on the brink of finally making the finals.
Meanwhile, Barangay Ginebra is currently trying to clinch the first finals seat as of this writing.
The Gin Kings, ahead 2-1, can finish off and dethrone defending champion San Miguel in their own Game 4 over at the other side of the bracket.